moving with 3 1/2 yo across country

[beebee]

In three weeks, my family (myself, my husband, 3 1/2 yo girl, and 2 month boy) are moving from the pacific NW to the DC area. I am very concerned about the effect of the move on my daughter. She is old enough to know her way around our neighborhood and has good friends she will be leaving. She has always had a hard time with even small changes in her life. Does anyone have advice or experience that can help me to make the move a good experience for her?

[Amymom2-2]

We moved out of stat when my dd was 2. WE referred to it as an "adventure". We went by car, and her grandparents came to help us move. We made lots of stops for her to run around. Once we got to our new home, we immediately found some of her toys that had been packed, so something was familiar. And even tho we were busy moving, we made a point to find a new park right off. Had some special new surprises for along the way too.

My dh left the military when she was 7 mo old. One thing they always told us was to be understanding, and let the kids know you miss your old home to, but there will be new places to go and friends to meet. Also, my mom moved us around a bunch (new schools every 2 yrs!) -- so from experience, your attitude will help too.

My dd was younger, but I do want to say we moved during potty training, and it ended that! So, you may experience some regression.

Good Luck w/ your move!

[khrisday]

Prepare, prepare, prepare!

I would talk up the move to the kids- show them pictures on a map of where you'll be moving to- check out books from the library both about the DC area and about moving (I remember a cute one called Gila Monsters Meet You at the Airport). Make them a countdown calendar so they can see when the move is happening, and I would have her make some special gifts for the people she is leaving behind to give them when she says goodbye.